THE government has allocated P7.8 billion in the 2026 national budget for upgrading 21 airports.
“We are counting on these upgrades to enhance the overall air travel experience for passengers, attract more tourists, support the growth of small and medium enterprises, and create additional jobs,” House Minority Leader and 4Ps Rep. Marcelino Libanan said in a statement on Sunday.
“We are reporting these funding allocations so communities can monitor the progress of airport upgrades in their respective areas,” Libanan said.
The airports and their allocations are the New Dumaguete Airport (P2.5 billion), Tacloban Airport (P741.7 million), Mati Airport (P700 million), Laoag International Airport (P507.3 million), New Naga Airport (P444.6 million), Ormoc Airport (P433 million), Busuanga Airport (P415 million), Candon Airport (P350 million), New Manila International Airport (P200 million), Catbalogan Airport (P200 million), Kalibo International Airport (P195.5 million), Camiguin Airport (P150 million), Bukidnon Airport (P150 million), Daet Airport (P150 million), Bicol International Airport (P150 million), Central Mindanao (M’lang) Airport (P100 million), Siargao Airport (P100 million), and Antique Airport (P99.5 million).
Additional funding was also allocated for Busuanga (P70 million), Siargao (P23 million), and Cauayan airport (P160 million) for “night-rating” improvements — installing lighting, navigation, and safety systems to allow aircraft operations at night or under low-visibility conditions.